Wiveliscombe 1sts narrowly missed out on a losing bonus point in a close match against Redruth in the Western Counties league.

The contest, held in Cornwall, saw Wiveliscombe, currently ranked fifth, fall behind 9-0 at half-time thanks to home fly-half Ashley Hoskins, who converted three penalties.

Redruth, at home, extended their lead early in the second half with a fourth penalty from Hoskins, bringing the score to 12-0.

A try from full-back Ben Rosevear on the 62nd minute gave Redruth a 17-0 lead.

However, Wiveliscombe responded with renewed determination as prop Matthew Ellis scored a try in the 65th minute, converted by fly-half Charlie Sharland, closing the gap to 17-7.

Redruth quickly replied with a second try from flanker Luke Young, stretching their lead to 22-7.

Wiveliscombe, demonstrating persistence, scored again late in the game, with centre Will Thorne crossing the try line.

Sharland added the extras, making the final score 22-14.

Wiveliscombe 1stXV now sit fifth in the Western Counties West League, just one place above Barnstaple 2nds.

Meanwhile, Wiveliscombe’s 2ndXV secured their top position in the league after a close match against Burnham on Sea 2ndXV, winning 16-7.

Having won all of their eight league games this season, Wiveliscombe’s 2ndXV are four points ahead of second-place Martock.

Both Wiveliscombe 1stXV and 2ndXV have away fixtures on December 7 against Bude 1stXV and Martock, respectively.